Transform your dinner table with 'No More Plain Jane Green Beans'—a vibrant and flavorful take on a classic side dish! Crisp-tender fresh green beans are blanched to perfection, then sautéed in a luscious blend of olive oil, butter, and garlic for a mouthwatering base. Bright notes of lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice infuse a citrusy zing, while toasted sliced almonds add a satisfying crunch. The recipe is elevated further with a touch of spice from optional red pepper flakes. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this easy green bean recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or elegant holiday feasts. Bursting with bold flavors and finished with a hearty sprinkle of toasted almonds, 'No More Plain Jane Green Beans' will quickly become your go-to vegetable side dish!
Wash and trim the green beans, removing the stem ends.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until they are brightly green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbling.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the blanched green beans to the skillet. Toss to coat the beans in the oil, butter, and garlic mixture. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the beans are warmed through and slightly seared.
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine and cook for 1 more minute.
In a separate small skillet or in the microwave, toast the sliced almonds for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and aromatic, being careful not to burn them.
Remove the green beans from the heat and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the top.
Serve immediately and enjoy your 'No More Plain Jane Green Beans'!
Calories |
710 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.5 g | 74% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.3 g | 62% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 33 mg | 11% | |
| Sodium | 1283 mg | 56% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 44.2 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.9 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.6 g | ||
| Protein | 15.9 g | 32% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 297 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 6.3 mg | 35% | |
| Potassium | 1288 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.